What is the structure of elastin?

Elastin is an important structural protein found in many body structures that flex and stretch. Elastin contains simple amino acids.

Elastin is a major protein component found in all vertebrates in categories above jawless fish. It is composed of a number of simple amino acids like glycine, valine, alanine and proline, known as tropoelastin protein. Elastin is found in various organs that require elasticity:

• Skin
• Arteries
• Lungs
• Cartilage and ligaments
• Bladder

Larger arteries like the aorta contain high concentrations of elastin. The structure of the elastin protein makes it particularly important in the function of tissues that stretch and contract as well as in load-bearing body components.